North Carolina wide receiver Tylee Craft dies at 23 years old after cancer battle

The University of North Carolina community is mourning the loss of wide receiver Tylee Craft, who passed away at the age of 23 after a courageous battle with cancer. The school announced his death on Saturday, highlighting the profound impact Craft had during his time at UNC.

A four-star recruit, Craft played two seasons with the Tar Heels, showcasing his talent on the field in 2020 and 2021. His life took a tragic turn when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in March 2022. Despite the challenges he faced, Craft remained a source of inspiration and positivity for his teammates and fans alike.

“It is with love and fond memories that we announce Tylee Craft has begun his journey on the other side,” the university stated in a heartfelt release. “Tylee meant so much to so many and affected us in ways we’ll always be thankful for. He was 1-of-1 and, while he won’t be with us in body, he’ll be watching over us with his endearing smile and endless positivity.”

In recognition of his unwavering spirit, Craft received the Disney Spirit Award in 2022, an honor bestowed upon the most inspirational figure in college football. This accolade reflected not just his abilities as an athlete but also his remarkable resilience and character.

On the day of his passing, the university paid tribute to Craft before the game against Georgia Tech at Kenan Memorial Stadium in Chapel Hill. Tar Heels head coach Mack Brown embraced Craft’s mother during a poignant tribute, which included 13 seconds of applause to honor the late player. Wide receiver JJ Jones wore Craft’s jersey, No. 13, as a further sign of respect.

After the game, which ended in a heartbreaking 41-34 loss for the Tar Heels, an emotional Mack Brown addressed the media. He spoke of the challenge of informing the team about Craft’s passing. “You have to figure out how to tell a group—what a difficult thing to tell a group of young people about one of their best friends,” he shared. “It triggers a lot of things that other people had in their lives. It’s a very, very difficult time for them, and at the same time, you do it in a dressing room right after you lost a heartbreaking game. So, they’re struggling.”

Brown further expressed his admiration for Craft, noting, “This young man fought so hard for his two and a half years. The doctors told us he outlived what he should have, and he did it with a spirit. And he did it with a smile on his face. He didn’t miss a meeting; he didn’t miss practice. He coached these other young people. He’s just an incredible young person.”

Craft’s journey, marked by both trials and triumphs, serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and strength in the face of adversity. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the memories created during his time at the university. The Tar Heels community will continue to honor Craft’s spirit, carrying forward his message of positivity and determination.

In reflecting on Craft’s impact, it becomes evident that he was more than just a player; he was a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. His commitment to his teammates and the sport, even amid personal struggles, resonates deeply with those who knew him.

As the UNC community processes this loss, they will remember Tylee Craft not only for his skills on the football field but for his remarkable character and unwavering spirit. His journey reminds us of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of community in times of hardship.

The tributes and memories shared by teammates, coaches, and fans alike will ensure that Tylee Craft’s legacy endures, serving as a testament to a young man who faced unimaginable challenges with grace and courage.